Trade at Highcross Leicester soared during the month of June as Leicestershire shoppers with an eye for a bargain flocked to the centre for its annual summer sales. 

During June total sales at Highcross increased by two per cent, whilst like-for-like sales, compared to June 2010, increased by four per cent - making this year's summer clearance event the strongest since the centre opened in 2008.

According to the latest figures released by the British Retail Consortium yesterday, national sales experienced growth of 1.5 per cent in June, whilst like-for-like sales declined by 0.6 per cent. 

Retailers at Highcross were offering a wide range of discounts to tempt shoppers. The likes of John Lewis and Debenhams were offering up to 50 per cent off many items, with independent retailers such as Francis & Gaye offering discounts on their products too. 

Jo Tallack, general manager at Highcross, said: "Last month was a really strong one for retailers at Highcross, with both total sales and like-for-like sales bucking the national trend.

"During the last week of the month, when many of Highcross' stores launched their summer clearance events, the centre experienced an increase of 3.6 per cent on total sales compared to the previous month, with like-for-like sales (compared to June 2010) rising by two per cent."

Footwear, jewellery, health & beauty and restaurants continued to be amongst the best-performing sectors at Highcross, with each area experiencing double-digit growth over the last 12 months.